The new rule, which was passed at the FIBA Mid-Term Congress, comes as a result of the fact that traditional dress codes in some countries – which call for the head and/or entire body being covered – were incompatible with FIBA’s previous headgear rule.

IWBF Secretary General, Maureen Orchard said: “We are extremely pleased that FIBA has made the decision to revise its previous rule over headgear. This decision will make the understanding and enforcement by our officials easier now because of the harmonisation between both sports.